A CLOSER LOOK AT OUR BEREAVEMENT MINISTRY: Sharing the Journey with Anyone Who Has Faced a Loss

The loss of a loved one affects each person differently. While everyone has their grief journey, one thing that can help is to have others alongside you during the journey. The Bereavement Ministry is here to share in that journey, supporting those who have suffered the loss of a loved one. The program is available to everyone — whether they lost a loved one last year or 20 years ago.

The Scripture-based ministry, which follows the Seasons of Hope program, is unique as its sessions continue for a longer period of 24 weeks. The program is organized into four sixweek sessions. Attendees can start at any time in the program cycle.

Pam Cowles has seen more than 300 people through this program in her 12 years of facilitating it. The group meets Wednesday mornings from 10 a.m. to noon in the rectory meeting room. Pam usually has a past attendee help her facilitate. This person can serve as an example to those grieving that they can make it through.

“I like to think of grief as being on a journey,” Pam says. “Attendees are there to support each other. There are lifelong friendships made.”

A common misconception is that this program is only for those who have lost a spouse. This is not the case — it is meant for anyone grieving a loss of a family member. There is also a misconception that if you show up, you are committed to attending each session. Pam invites anyone to sit in and check it out — attendees are under no obligation to share or commit.

The sessions cover topics such as dealing with loneliness, anger issues, and family relationships.

“This program really focuses on how our faith supports us,” Pam says. “Thank God we have the belief that there is something beyond this life.”

People are being referred to the Bereavement Ministry from doctor’s offices, and being Catholic is not a requirement to attend. It’s grown to become a popular program in the Palm Coast area.

Some attendees lost a loved one many years ago, and others have lost someone more recently. There have been attendees who have come multiple times due to suffering multiple losses.

“Grieving different relationships involves a different process,” Pam says.

Pam tries to help attendees find a ministry to get involved in at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton. It always helps the grief process to have a sense of purpose. She first got started with the Bereavement Ministry when she heard the Diocese of St. Augustine was looking for a facilitator. At that time, no classes were being offered between Jacksonville and Daytona Beach.

“Something inspired me,” Pam says. “I said, ‘I think I can do that.’”

Having received training through the diocese, Pam feels blessed to be part of this ministry.

“It’s really rewarding to see people start to heal as they go through this,” she says. “This strengthens my faith, just to see how people cope and become stronger. I love seeing people support each other, reach out and look after one another.”

If you would like to get involved in the Bereavement Ministry, simply attend a Wednesday 10 a.m. meeting or contact Pam Cowles at healthministry@seaspcfl.org. All who are grieving a loss are welcome.

Louise Kummer

Pam Cowles